The free event was organised for the fourth year by Mana Tāhuna Charitable Trust, in partnership with the Queenstown Lakes District Council and the Ministry for Culture and Heritage.
Running from 1pm until 6pm, the event began with a mihi whakatau to formally welcome the community and mark the significance of Te Tiriti.
Mayor John Glover told the crowd the community came together at the Gardens each year to "observe and respect the traditions of Waitangi".
"We know that around the country it can become politicised, become divisive.
"We acknowledge our colonial past, and the learnings we take with us going forward.
"What brings us together today is having a heap of fun, some great kai and some inspirational music."
The musical lineup was headlined by Queenstown-founded roots and RnB group Sunshine Sound System, who were supported by five-piece local group The Kollective.
Food was a key feature of the day. Community groups ran fundraising food stalls, including authentic hāngī prepared by Hāngī Master.
